Moving with U-Haul involves several cost components, with the rental truck, distance, and insurance typically driving the total price. This guide outlines typical price ranges in USD, including low, average, and high estimates, to help shoppers budget accurately. It also highlights key cost drivers and practical ways to save.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Truck Rental (daily) | $19-$39 | $29-$59 | $60-$90 | Base rate varies by size and location |
| Mileage Charge (per mile) | $0.40-$0.75 | $0.59-$0.89 | $0.99-$1.25 | Distance-dependent; long moves cheaper per mile |
| Fuel | $15-$40 | $25-$60 | $60-$100 | Depends on fuel tank and distance |
| Insurance / Protection Plans | $8-$15 | $12-$25 | $30-$60 | Collision, liability, or deductible options |
| Equipment & Supplies | $5-$25 | $15-$40 | $50-$120 | Moving blankets, dolly, straps, pads |
| Environmental Fees / Taxes | $0-$8 | $2-$15 | $10-$40 | Varies by state and rental location |
| Delivery, Gas, or Accessorials | $0-$20 | $5-$40 | $60-$120 | Fuel surcharge or service add-ons |
| Storage (optional) | $15-$40/mo | $25-$60/mo | $100-$200/mo | Short- or long-term options available |
Assumptions: region, move distance, truck size, duration, and chosen protection options.
Overview Of Costs
Typical cost range for a local or one-way move with a U-Haul truck often spans from roughly $100 to $1,000, depending on truck size, distance, fuel, and insurance selections. For short local moves, most customers pay in the $150-$400 range if the trip is within a few hours and under a 20-mile radius. For longer moves or larger trucks, total costs commonly fall between $500 and $1,000, and can exceed $1,000 for multi-day hires or cross-state moves. The main cost drivers are truck size, mileage, fuel, and optional protection plans.
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Truck Rental | $19-$39 | $29-$59 | $60-$90 | Size and duration impact the base rate |
| Mileage | $0.40-$0.75/mi | $0.59-$0.89/mi | $0.99-$1.25/mi | Charge varies by distance and region |
| Fuel | $15-$40 | $25-$60 | $60-$100 | Estimates assume average fuel consumption |
| Insurance / Protection | $8-$15 | $12-$25 | $30-$60 | Levels range from basic to full coverage |
| Equipment & Supplies | $5-$25 | $15-$40 | $50-$120 | Dollies, pads, straps, blankets |
| Taxes & Fees | $0-$8 | $2-$15 | $10-$40 | State and local charges apply |
| Delivery/Accessorials | $0-$20 | $5-$40 | $60-$120 | Fuel surcharges, late return fees |
Pricing Variables
Key price levers include truck size, rental duration, and the total distance driven. A larger truck with high mileage significantly raises the total. Local moves typically incur less than long-distance moves, but regional demand can create fluctuation. Insurance choices substantially affect the final price, as do optional add-ons like furniture sliders or protective blankets.
Ways To Save
Smart budgeting tactics include downsizing to a smaller truck when possible, scheduling a local move during off-peak days, and returning the truck on time to avoid extra daily charges. Booking online in advance often yields lower base rates, while bundling equipment under a single rental can reduce per-item fees. Consider self-packing and removing duplicate or unnecessary items to cut weight and mileage.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by market across the United States. In urban core areas, trucks tend to be in higher demand, pushing daily rates and mileage charges up. Suburban markets may offer moderate rates and more vehicle availability, while rural areas can feature lower base rates but longer travel to access tools and supplies. Expect approximate deltas of +/- 10-20% between Urban, Suburban, and Rural locations for base rental and mileage figures.
Labor, Hours & Rates
U-Haul itself does not typically include moving labor as part of the rental; labor would be from third-party movers or self-crew. If hiring helpers, budget separately for hourly labor, commonly $25-$60 per hour per helper depending on region and expertise. For a standard two-person crew moving a one-bedroom apartment, plan 3-6 hours of labor, totaling roughly $150-$450 in labor costs before tip.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs often appear in the fine print such as fuel surcharges, late return penalties, or truck cleaning fees. Some locations require deposits or hold amounts on credit cards. Accessorial charges for additional equipment, such as extra dollies or moving blankets, can add $10-$50 or more. Always verify estimated taxes, insurance, and any minimum rental duration to avoid surprises at pickup.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Scenario 1: Basic Local Move — 2 hours, 10 miles, small moving truck. Truck rental $29/day, mileage $6 (10 miles @ $0.60/mi), fuel $20, insurance $12, equipment $15. Total around $82 before taxes and fees. Assumptions: local move, single crew, no storage.
Scenario 2: Mid-Range Across Town — 24 miles, one day, 20-foot truck. Truck rental $59/day, mileage $12 (20 miles), fuel $35, insurance $25, equipment $25, taxes/fees $20. Total around $176. Assumptions: standard protection, regional taxes apply.
Scenario 3: Premium Long-Distance Move — 150 miles, 26-foot truck, multiple days. Truck rental $85/day, mileage $120 (150 miles), fuel $120, insurance $60, equipment $50, storage $60 (optional). Total around $495 before tax and fees. Assumptions: extended distance, multiple days, optional storage.